JACK

M E N ' S C U L T U R E 31 Turkey to bring a touch of that to the city with a bespoke bar inspired by the bush – Spirit of the Wild. Where would you suggest to travel with your mates, and what handy tips do you have to get permission from their mrs? I think the trick for doing this regularly, is letting your partner see how much of a better boyfriend it makes you when you return. You will both come back happier and more connected than ever. This time away is not just an investment for yourself, but your relationship too. Nothing beats a tent and a glass of bourbon next to the campfire with mates! Most importantly, tell us about the importance of mateship, the stats you have collected, and your advice on how to keep friendships going? Getting in the outdoors with mates has traditionally been how most blokes unwind but particularly in this fast pace digital age, we’re losing sight of real connections and quality time with mates. The mates who will call you out, lend you their last dollar and have your back no matter what mess you are in. As men, we need these connections, you don’t need a scientific journal to know how you feel after you’ve spent a weekend full of laughs (usually at rubbish), making memories that will keep you laughing for weeks and years to come. But I am as guilty as anyone. The further I got away from high school, the less I saw my close mates. “I’m just so busy” I would say. You need to make the time. I often think about it like this; if the world was going to end tomorrow, how important is that task you are so busy with. Will you look back on it and be glad you chose it. Or will you think of all the good times you had with those who mean the most. Life gets busy, but never too busy to take the time to reconnect with yourself, and with mates. You’ve accomplished a lot in a decade, what does the next decade hold for you? I hit the 30+ mark recently and it’s weird because I feel like I’m just getting started. I’m so glad I used my 20’s to see the world, make mistakes and learn about who I am. It’s set the foundations for the next stage of my life and everything else I am ready to achieve. I have more TV shows coming up, some of which I am producing. A new Travel Adventure company launching & lots of exciting Non-Profit programs getting ready to launch. Most importantly, for the first time in many years I am making time to slow down and smell the roses. Read, meditate, spend time with my family and get out to embrace my spirit of the wild with my mates who mean the most to me. What advice can you give to the Aussie bloke? I’ve travelled to 90 different countries. Wherever you are reading this right now, I can absolutely assure you that within a two-hour drive, you will find some of the best parts of the world on your doorstep. Rock climbing in the Blue Mountains, 4WD’ing on Fraser Island, random road trips through the Great Ocean Road - we live in one of the best countries on this planet. In one weekend you can get out, disconnect & recharge. Take advantage of that every chance you can! tysontravel the naked traveller Tyson Mayr